Nigeria’s Super Eagles eased the pressure following their disappointing 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau with a convincing 3-1 victory over Tanzania in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The Super Eagles took an early lead through Alhassan Yusuf, who finished off a pass from Ademola Lookman just two minutes into the encounter Nigeria dominated possession in the opening stages, putting Tanzania under pressure and creating opportunities to extend their advantage.
However, Tanzania drew level in the 32nd minute through Alphonce Msanga, who capitalised on an opportunity to restore parity against the run of play both sides went into the break with the score tied at 1-1, after Nigeria’s early dominance failed to translate into a sustained advantage.
Nigeria returned for the second half with renewed attacking intent, and coach Éric Chelle introduced Moses Usor and Tolu Arokodare for Alhassan Yusuf and Tochukwu Nnadi.
The substitutions quickly paid off as Arokodare restored Nigeria’s lead in the 52nd minute, finishing with a backheel after receiving a cross from captain Wilfred Ndidi.
The striker completed his brace eight minutes later, firing a low finish into the net following a cross from Moses Usor to extend Nigeria’s advantage to 3-1.
Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi subsequently made changes in an attempt to revive his side’s chances, introducing Charles M’Mombwa and later making further substitutions.
However, the Tanzanians struggled to find a response as Nigeria maintained its advantage Nigeria now sit in second place in Group L with 6 points, a point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who are on 7 points
